David Robertson, Sean Rodriguez Among Dark Horses to Boost Their Teams in the AL East

As of Sunday, every American League East team will have played at least one Grapefruit League game. Then, as stats pile up and injuries occur and roster moves get made, we can begin to see the division take shape leading up to Opening Day.

Each team has star power. Such is life in the AL East. But every season sees its share of surprise players, the guys that come out of nowhere to carry the mantle, or at least do more than what was expected. Last week, we examined some players that need to step up for their teams to be successful. This time, let’s look at four players among Red Sox division rivals that could surprise some people in 2011.

Baltimore Orioles: Brad Bergesen

New York Yankees: David Robertson

Tampa Bay Rays: Sean Rodriguez

Toronto Blue Jays: Travis Snider

Every Saturday, NESN.com Red Sox reporter Tony Lee will look at Boston’s competition in the AL East.